Get Ready for Hinckley‑Big Rock’s Homecoming Celebration — September 26th, 2025!
As we look forward to the upcoming Homecoming week, we’re reminded that Homecoming means something different to everyone.
For some, it brings back memories of long-standing HBR traditions—parade floats, the Taste of HBR, spirited games, alumni soccer, and class reunions. For our current students, it’s a week full of energy, excitement, and school pride, with events happening throughout the week.
There’s much to look forward to: golf matches, cross country meets, student/staff volleyball games, soccer games, and volleyball matches—all building up to the semi-formal dance on Saturday night in the high school gym from 7:00-10:00PM.
Homecoming is also a time for connection. It’s a chance for families and friends, old and new, to come together. For those watching their children or grandchildren participate in the same events they once did, it brings a special sense of nostalgia and continuity.
No matter how you experience it, Homecoming is about bringing people together and creating lasting memories. We hope you enjoy the week ahead—no matter how busy—and find joy in seeing the celebration through the eyes of our HBR youth.
Homecoming Parade–Bring a chair and a bag for collecting candy!
● The celebration begins at 5:30 PM with the Community Parade.
● It will roll out from the west side of McKinley, moving east and ending at the corner of Rees and McKinley.
● Bring your family, friends, and your biggest cheering voice. Parade participants will be tossing candy — spectators, be ready!
Taste of HBR — Bring Your Appetite!
Once you’ve collected your candy and enjoyed the parade, head over to the back parking lot by the soccer fields for the Taste of HBR.
● Our High School’s Clubs and Groups will be serving up delicious treats — and all proceeds benefit those groups.
● It’s a chance to sample tasty creations, support local student efforts, and mingle with people in the community.
TICKET PICK-UP: HBRHS Main Office on September 25th from 8:00 AM-4:00 PM TICKET BOOTH: September 26th at the Taste
TICKETS are still available for purchase at The Taste on September 26th.
After the Taste of HBR, the action moves to the soccer field, where the Hinckley‑Big Rock Royals take on Marengo under the stadium lights.
● There’s something magical about a night‐game: community cheering, the glow of the field, and the shared pride in rooting for our Royals.
● Bring your school spirit (and maybe a cozy jacket — September nights get chilly!).
Other Homecoming Events: Everyone Welcome — Let’s Make it Amazing
This is more than just a school event — it’s a celebration for the whole Hinckley‑Big Rock community. Whether you’re a student, parent, alumnus, neighbor, or visitor, your presence makes a difference.
Let’s come together to make this Homecoming one to remember: full of laughter, good food, pride, and community. Spread the word. Wear your school colors. Show up early. And let’s cheer loud for the Royals.
Monday, September 22nd: Varsity Soccer Team vs Serena @ HBR 6 PM
Tuesday, September 23rd: HBR Boys and Girls Golf Teams vs IMSA @Indian Oaks Country Club, Shabbona 4PM
Tuesday, September 23rd: JV Soccer Team vs Genoa Kingston @ HBR 4:45 PM Wednesday, September 24th: Staff vs Student Volleyball Game @ HBR 6:00 PM Thursday, September 25th: JV Volleyball Team vs St. Ed’s of Elgin @ HBR 5:30 PM
Saturday, September 27th: Freshman Volleyball Team competing against St. Bede Academy in a Quad Meet. This meet begins at 8:30 AM at St. Bede Academy.
Saturday, September 27th: Varsity Cross Country Team will also be competing against Harvest Christian Academy on Saturday starting at 9:30 at Harvest Christian.
Saturday, September 27th: Alumni Soccer Game: Check-In 11:30 AM, Game 12:30 PM @ HBRHS
Saturday, September 27th: Homecoming Dance for students: HBR High School 7:00 PM-10:00PM
HBR Alumni are also invited to compete in the First Annual Volleyball Competition on Saturday, September 27th in the Main Gym at HBRHS at 9:00 AM. Players are still needed for this event, so please reach out to JoJo Badal or Ashley Liakas through the HBR Alumni Volleyball page on Facebook!
Hope to see you at all our events during the week and Friday, September 26th — at the parade, the Taste of HBR, and soccer game under the lights!
Written By HBR Staff: Kim Halverson, Jeff Wilkie, and Becky Lauer